One of the clearest signals from the data is mounting financial strain amid a compressed but highly actionable moment for advertisers.

Some marketers said they expect AI to contribute to workforce reductions, while a majority anticipate maintaining current headcount but redeploying talent.

Longer search times mean fewer viewing sessions and reduced ad impressions for ad-supported and FAST services.

Blind evaluations by expert moderators consistently rated AI-moderated interviews poorly on core qualitative skills, including rapport-building, improvisation and the ability to ask insightful follow-up questions.

The way trust is built is evolving, with buyers placing greater weight on brand reputation, peer recommendations and visible expertise

Nearly two-thirds of teens ages 13 to 17 say they use an AI chatbot, with more than a quarter reporting daily use.

Context includes the situation, mindset and occasion in which consumers encounter brands.

Among supporters of the ban, common concerns included the vulnerability of young people to manipulation and influence.

The FIFA World Cup 2026, the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics and a rapidly evolving streaming ecosystem will push brands to stand out.

Entertainment has quietly expanded its share of the consumer wallet for the past three years.